Access to optimally fluoridated drinking water

KPI 11: Proportion of people with access to optimally fluoridated drinking water

Community water fluoridation is a safe strategy to improve oral health by reducing the risk of dental caries. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) found that water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by 26% to 44% in children and adolescents, and by 27% in adults (NHMRC 2017).

In 2017, the NHMRC estimated that around 89% of Australians have access to fluoridated drinking water. The proportion of people with access to fluoridated drinking water varies across Australia, from 99% in the Australian Capital Territory to 72% in Queensland.

Explore the data using the interactive below:

KPI 11: Proportion of people with access to optimally fluoridated water

This figure shows the proportion of people with access to optimally fluoridated water in 2017. The national, state and territory baseline report estimates and the most current estimates are presented. In 2017, 89% of Australians had access to optimally fluoridated water.

Data tables available for download.

More information about water fluoridation.

References:

NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) 2017. NHMRC Public Statement 2017 - Water Fluoridation and Human Health in Australia. Canberra: NHMRC.